Rfid-enabled optical adapter for use with a patch panel

ABSTRACT

One embodiment is directed to a system comprising a panel comprising a plurality of openings. The system is configured to selectively couple a panel contact for each opening to an RFID reader. The system further comprises a plurality of optical adapters. Each optical adapter comprises: at least one radio frequency identifier (RFID) antenna; at least one adapter contact that is electrically connected to the RFID antenna; and at least one conductor configured to electrically connect the adapter contact to respective one of respective panel contacts when the optical adapter is inserted into one of the openings of the panel. The RFID antenna of each connector is configured to be positioned near an RFID tag attached to the connector when the connector is inserted into the body of the optical adapter. The system is configured to selectively couple the RFID reader to each of the panel contacts. Other embodiments are disclosed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/939,830, filed Jul. 11, 2013, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/670,357,filed on Jul. 11, 2012, both which are hereby incorporated herein byreference.

BACKGROUND

Patching or other interconnect systems are commonly used incommunication networks in order to provide flexibility in implementinglogical communication links. One example of a patching or interconnectsystem is a patch panel. A patch panel typically includes a panel inwhich a plurality of ports are formed or otherwise housed. Each portincludes a “front” connector (or other attachment mechanism) and a“rear” connector (or other attachment mechanism such as a punch-downblock or permanently attached optical fiber). The port is configured tocommunicatively couple any cable attached to the front connector of thatport to any cable that is attached to the rear of that port. Otherpatching systems are implemented in similar ways.

Many types of physical layer management (PLM) systems have beendeveloped in order to automatically keep track of which cables areattached to which ports of a patching system. In one type of system,each connector that is attached to a front connector of a patch panelhas a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag attached to it. An RFIDreader can then be used to wirelessly read an identifier from each frontconnector's RFID tag in order to keep track of what connectors andcables are attached to the front connectors of the patch panel.Typically, an RFID reader is integrated into the patch panel in order toread such front RFID tags. However, such systems do not include anymechanism to automatically track the rear connectors or cables. Also,with such systems, the connectors used to implement the ports themselvesare typically not removable.

SUMMARY

One embodiment is directed to an optical adapter comprising a body inwhich at least one connector can be inserted, at least one radiofrequency identification (RFID) antenna, and a visual indicator. Theoptical adapter further comprises at least one adapter contact that iselectrically connected to the RFID antenna and the visual indicator anda clip configured to electrically connect the adapter contact to a panelcontact on a panel when the optical adapter is inserted into the paneland to mechanically hold the optical adapter in the panel. The RFIDantenna is configured to be positioned near an RFID tag attached to theconnector when the connector is inserted into the body of the opticaladapter.

Another embodiment is directed to a system comprising a panel comprisinga plurality of openings, each of the opening comprising a respectivepanel contact, wherein the system is configured to selectively coupleeach panel contact to an RFID reader. The system further comprises aplurality of optical adapters configured to be inserted into theopenings of the panel. Each optical adapter comprises a body in which atleast one connector can be inserted, at least one radio frequencyidentification (RFID) antenna, and a visual indicator. Each opticaladapter further comprises at least one adapter contact that iselectrically connected to the RFID antenna and the visual indicator anda clip configured to electrically connect the adapter contact torespective one of respective panel contacts when the optical adapter isinserted into one of the openings of the panel and to mechanically holdthe optical adapter in the panel. The RFID antenna of each connector isconfigured to be positioned near an RFID tag attached to the connectorwhen the connector is inserted into the body of the optical adapter. Thesystem is configured to selective couple the RFID reader to each of thepanel contacts.

Another embodiment is directed to a method comprising inserting anoptical adapter into an opening of a panel. The optical adaptercomprises a body in which at least one connector can be inserted, atleast one radio frequency identification (RFID) antenna, a visualindicator. The optical adapter further comprises at least one adaptercontact that is electrically connected to the RFID antenna and thevisual indicator and a clip configured to electrically connect theadapter contact to a panel contact on a panel when the optical adapteris inserted into the panel and to mechanically hold the optical adapterin the panel. The RFID antenna is configured to be positioned near anRFID tag attached to the connector when the connector is inserted intothe body of the optical adapter. The method further comprisesselectively coupling an RFID reader to the RFID antenna and reading afirst RFID tag associated with a first connecter inserted into a firstside of the optical adapter and reading a second RFID tag associatedwith a second connector inserted into a second side of the opticaladapter.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A shows one exemplary embodiment of an optical adapter in which aconnector having a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag attached toit can be inserted.

FIG. 1B shows the reverse side of the adapter printed circuit board ofFIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C shows a simplified top, cross sectional view of the opticaladapter shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1D shows a partial view of the optical adapter of FIG. 1A insertedinto a panel printed circuit board of a patch panel system shown in FIG.1F.

FIG. 1E shows two connectors inserted into the optical adapter of FIG.1A.

FIG. 1F shows one exemplary embodiment of an optical patch panel systemin which the optical adapter of FIG. 1A can be used.

FIG. 2A shows another exemplary embodiment of an optical adapter.

FIG. 2B shows the optical adapter of FIG. 2A with a circuit boardattached to the optical adapter.

FIG. 2C shows an example of a clip that is suitable for use with theoptical adapter of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2D shows a rotated view of the clip of FIG. 2C.

FIGS. 2E-2G shows the opposite side of the optical adapter of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2H shows a partial view of the optical adapter of FIG. 2A insertedinto the panel shown in FIG. 2I.

FIG. 2I shows an exemplary embodiment of a panel that is suitable foruse with the optical adapter of FIG. 2A.

Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicatelike elements. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A-1E show one exemplary embodiment of an optical adapter 100 inwhich a connector 108 having a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag102 attached to it can be inserted. In this exemplary embodiment, theoptical adapter 100 can be used with an optical patch panel system (orother patching or other interconnect system) 104 (shown in FIG. 1F).

In general, the optical adapter 100 comprises a body 106 that hasopenings formed in opposing ends. The body 106 is configured to receiveand mechanically hold two optical connectors 108 that terminaterespective optical cables 110. The body 106 is configured, in aconventional manner, to optically couple a respective fiber 112 includedin each of the cables 110 while the connectors 108 are fully insertedinto the body 106 of the adapter 100.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, the optical adapter100 is implemented as a simplex SC adapter that is configured tomechanically hold, and optically couple to one another, two SCconnectors 108 that terminate respective optical cables 110. As shown inFIG. 1C, in this exemplary embodiment, each connector 108 contains arespective ferrule 114 surrounding an end of the fiber 112 terminated bythat connector 108. The ferrule 114 is axially positioned in a chamber116 for each connector 108 and is biased by a spring (not shown). AnRFID tag 102 is attached to each connector 108 by forming an opening 118in an outer part 120 of the chamber 116 and attaching the RFID tag 102to the inner part 122 of the chamber 116. This enables the inner part122 to move in its normal way and not interfere with the normaloperation of the connector 108. Otherwise, the connector 108 isimplemented in a conventional manner.

In this exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1C, the body 106 of theoptical adapter 100 includes a sleeve 124 to receive and align theferrules 114 of two optical connectors 108 inserted into the opticaladapter 100. This aspect of the adapter 100 is also implemented in aconventional manner.

The optical adapter 100 includes an RFID antenna 126 and visualindicator 128 attached to it. More specifically, in this exemplaryembodiment, the RFID antenna 126 is implemented as a pair of RFIDantenna coils 126 and the visual indicator 128 is implemented as a pairof light emitting diodes (LEDs) 128. The pair of RFID antenna coils 126comprises a common loop (shown in FIG. 1E) that is coupled to a pair ofcontacts 130 that are also included in the optical adapter 100. Also,both LEDs 128 are connected to the same pair of contacts 130 that thecoils 126 are coupled to. The pair of contacts 130 is used toselectively electrically connect the pair of coils 126 to an RFID reader132 associated with the patch panel system 104 when the optical adapter100 is inserted into the patch panel system 104. Also, the pair ofcontacts 130 is used to selectively electrically connect the pair ofLEDs 128 to an LED controller 134 that is configured to turn the LEDs128 on and off (for example, to provide a visual indication to atechnician).

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, the antenna coils 126and LEDs 128 are attached to a printed circuit board (PCB) 136 that isattached to the outer surface of one side of the body 106 of the adapter100. This PCB 136 is also referred to here as the “adapter” PCB 136. Inthis exemplary embodiment, the contacts 130 are implemented asconductive pads 130 located on an upper and lower part of the adapterPCB 136. The antenna coils 126 and LEDs 128 are electrically coupled tothe adapter pads 130 by a circuit formed on the adapter PCB 136.

When fitted into the adapter 100 in its normal working position, thecenter of the RFID tag 102 of an inserted connector 108 and the centerof one of the coils 126 on the adapter PCB 136 will align with oneanother (as shown in FIG. 1E)

The adapter 100 is configured to be inserted into a printed circuitboard (PCB) 138 that can be attached to or form a part of the patchpanel system 104. This PCB 138 is also referred to here as the “panel”PCB 138. The panel PCB 138 is supported by a rack 137 or other supportstructure (for example, a support structure that is integrated into anenclosure 139 that houses the components of the patch panel system 104).

The panel PCB 138 includes openings 140 into which a respective adapter100 is inserted. These openings 140 are also referred to here as theports 140 of the patch panel system 104. The panel PCB 138 includesedge-plated pads 142 on the top and bottom of each opening 140. The pads142 are also referred to here as “panel pads” 142. The panel pads 142are used to provide two connections between the panel PCB 138 and theadapter PCB 136 of the adapter 100 that is inserted into that opening140. This is done using two clips 144. The clips 144 are configured tomechanically hold the corresponding adapter 100 in the opening 140 whenit is inserted into the opening 140. One clip 144 is used on the top ofthe adapter 100, and the other clip 144 is used on the bottom of theadapter 100.

Each clip 144 is also configured to make an electrical connectionbetween the panel pads 142 on the panel PCB 138 and the adapter pads 130on the adapter PCB 136. The clips 144 can be formed, for example, out ofmetal or a plastic with metal inserts. The clips 144 can be formed inother ways. Each of the panel pads 142 on the panel PCB 138 isconfigured to come into contact with the spring part of one of the clips144 when the adapter 100 is inserted into an opening 140 in the panelPCB 138. This results in two signal paths between each adapter PCB 136and the panel PCB 138. In this exemplary embodiment, the other part ofeach clip 144 has a 90-degree fold so that this part lines up with andmakes an electrical connection to a pad adapter 130 on the adapter PCB136, by way of spring pressure or other connection measures.

As described below, a multiplexer 146 can be used to selectively couplethe panel pads 142 associated with a particular port 140 of the patchpanel system 104 to the RFID reader 132 in order to read the RFID tags102 on the connectors 108 inserted into the corresponding adapter 100and to the controller 134 in order to provide a visual indication usingthe LEDs (or other visual indicators) 128.

The antenna coils 126 can be formed on the outer or inner surface ofadapter PCB 136 (using either discrete components or shaped tracking onthe PCB) or formed in the adapter PCB 136. In this exemplary embodiment,the adapter pads 130 on the adapter PCB 136 are formed on the outersurface of adapter PCB 136, and the discrete electronic components andcircuit are disposed on the other side of the adapter PCB 136 (oppositethe coils 126) and/or embedded in the body 106 of the adapter 100 or theadapter PCB 136. The components and circuit include the LEDs (or othervisual indicators) 128, which align with a light guide material 148positioned either on the adapter PCB 136 or molded into the adapter body106 or adapter PCB 136 for visual indication. The optical adapter 100 isconfigured to optically couple the light guide material 148 to the LEDs128 so as to provide a visual indication at points that are remote fromthe LEDs 128.

The adapter PCB 136 can be attached to the side of the adapter 100 in arecess, clipped into the adapter body 106, molded into the adapter body106 or using some other form of fitting. The components can also beencapsulated, especially if the adapter PCB 136 is molded into theadapter body 106 or for environmental reasons. Alternately, thecomponents can be positioned internally in the adapter PCB 136 usingvarious assembly or manufacturing techniques.

The antenna coils 126 for multiple adapters 100 and ports 140 arecommunicatively coupled to a single RFID reader 132 that is mounted tothe panel PCB 138. Also, LEDs 128 for multiple adapters 100 and ports140 are communicatively coupled to a single LED controller 134 that ismounted to the panel 138. The LED controller 134 is configured to turnthe LEDs 128 on and off (for example, to provide a visual indication toa technician in connection with the technician carrying out anelectronic work order). More specifically, in the exemplary embodimentshown in FIGS. 1A-1F, the pickup coils 126 for all of the adapters 100and ports 140 are coupled to the same RFID reader 132, and the LEDs 128for all of the adapters 100 and ports 140 are coupled to the same LEDcontroller 134. However, in other exemplary embodiments, more than oneRFID reader and LED controller can be used, where multiple adapters 100and ports 140 are communicatively coupled to each RFID reader and eachLED controller.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, a multiplexer 146mounted to the panel PCB 138 is used to selectively couple the RFIDreader 132 and the LED controller 134 to the adapter PCB 136 for one ofthe adapters 100 inserted into the panel 104. Also, a system controller150 is mounted to the panel PCB 138 and is communicatively coupled tothe RFID reader 132 and the LED controller 134.

The circuit on each adapter PCB 136 is coupled to the multiplexer 146using a respective two lines that are used both for coupling the antennacoils 126 for that adapter PCB 136 to the RFID reader 132 and forcoupling the LEDs 128 for that adapter PCB 136 to the LED controller134.

In this example, the LED controller 134 controls the LEDs 128 usingdirect current (DC) signals, whereas the RFID reader 132 interrogatesRFID tags 102 inserted into that adapter 100 (via the pickup coils 126)using radio frequency (RF) alternating current (AC) signals. The circuiton each adapter PCB 136 includes appropriate filter components thatisolate the DC signals used for controlling the LEDs 128 and the RF ACsignals used for interrogating RFID tags 102 from one another.

An X-Y array is used to selectively couple the multiplexer 146 to theadapter PCB 136 of one of the adapters 100. In this example, all of theadapters 100 in each row of the panel 104 share a common “row” line 152that is connected to a respective row I/O terminal of the multiplexer146. Also, all of the adapters 100 in each column of the panel 104 sharea common “column” line 154 that is connected to a respective column I/Oterminal of the multiplexer 146. Under the control of the systemcontroller 150, the multiplexer 146 is able select one of the adapters100 by coupling one of its row I/O terminals (and the corresponding rowline 152 connected to it) and one of its column I/O terminals (and thecorresponding column line 154 connected to it) to the RFID reader 132and the LED controller 134. This causes the adapter PCB 136 of theadapter 100 located at the selected row and column to be coupled to theRFID reader 132 and the LED controller 134. The number of control linesin the patch panel system 104 is greatly reduced by using the same linesin the X-Y array for coupling the antenna coils 126 to the RFID reader132 and for coupling the LEDs 128 to the LED controller 134.

As shown in FIG. 1E, in this exemplary embodiment, the panel pads 142for each port 140 are formed on the panel PCB 138 on the top and bottomof the corresponding opening 140. For each port 140, one of the pads 142terminates the row line 152 for that port 140 and the other of the pads142 terminates the column line 154 for that port 140.

In the example shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, the body 106 of each adapter 100has a middle ridge 156 that, when the adapter 100 is inserted into anopening 140 in the panel PCB 138, comes into contact with the face ofthe panel PCB 138 and prevents the adapter 100 from sliding through theopening 140.

In exemplary embodiment, the lines 152 and 154 are formed on or in thepanel PCB 138. For ease of illustration, the lines 152 and 154 arevisible in FIG. 1F. However, in one implementation, the panel PCB 138 isformed to appear as a conventional metal panel used in conventionalpatch panels by painting (or otherwise covering) the panel PCB 138 (andthe lines 152 and 154 formed therein or thereon) with a color of thetype used on conventional metal panels.

Each RFID tag 102 stores a unique identifier for the associatedconnector 108 or and/or cable 110. This identifier can be used toidentify which cable 110 is attached to each port 140 of the patch panel104. In some implementations, the RFID tags 102 are used to store otherinformation and/or are written to as well as read from. Typically, eachRFID tag 102 includes a non-volatile memory that is used to store suchinformation and RFID transponder electronics to enable the RFID tag 102to be energized by, and communicate with, the RFID reader 132.

The information that is read from the RFID tags 102 can then be used forvarious PLM-related purposes. For example, the information read from theRFID tags 102 can be communicated to a central management system 158that tracks which cables are attached to the patch panel 104.Information read from the RFID tags 102 can be communicated to themanagement system 158 in various ways (for example, using a wirelessnetwork connection, wired network connection, or removable media).

Also, the information read from RFID tags 102 can be used in assisting atechnician in carrying out a work order that, for example, involvesmoving, adding, or otherwise changing a connection that is made at thepatch panel system 104. For example, information about a work order thatis to be carried can be downloaded to a mobile communication device 160.Software executing on the mobile communication device 160 can thenprovide a technician using the mobile communication device 160 withstep-by-step directions for performing the work order. Information thatis read from the RFID tags 102 can be used by the mobile communicationdevice 160 and/or the central management system 158 to assist thetechnician in performing the work order. Information read from the RFIDtags 102 can be used to identify a particular connector 108 that is tobe affected by a step of a work order. Also, information read from anRFID tag 102 after a step of a work order has been performed can be usedto confirm that the step was properly carried out.

The information read from the RFID tags 102 can be used for otherpurposes as well.

Also, in this exemplary embodiment, the antenna coils 126 areimplemented as a single, common loop (shown in FIG. 1). When the RFIDreader 132 is selectively coupled to the antenna coils 126 for aparticular port 140 on the patch panel system 104 via the multiplexer146, the RFID reader 132 is able to read an RFID tag 102 that isattached to both connectors 108 (that is, front and rear) that areinserted into the adapter 100 or any RFID tag 102 that is attached to aprotective cap that is inserted into the adapter 100.

To do this, the RFID reader 132 broadcasts a radio frequency (RF) signalthat is suitable to energize any RFID tags 102 attached to anyconnectors 108 or protective cap inserted into the targeted adapter 100and, in response, cause the RFID tags 102 (if any) to transmit at leastsome of the information stored in them. One way to do this uses thestandard RFID anti-collision protocols that standard RFID tags implementto address situations where multiple RFID tags attempt to transmits atthe same time.

With this approach, in order to read RFID tags 102 attached to bothconnectors 108 attached to a given adapter 100, the RFID reader 132 isconfigured to broadcast the RF interrogation signal and wait untilresponsive transmissions are received from RFID tags 102 associated withboth sides of the adapter 100 or until a timeout period has elapsed.With this approach, the timeout period that the RFID reader 132 waits toreceive transmissions should be sufficiently long to allow RFID tags 102from both sides of the adapter 100 to transmit their information in thesituation where the worst-case delay is incurred using the standard RFIDanti-collision protocol. Also, the RFID reader 132 is configured to waitbefore providing any signal to the technician that the read transactionis complete.

One issue with this approach is that the standard RFID anti-collisionprotocols may result in such read transactions taking too long.

Another approach makes use of the application family identifier (AFI)defined by the ISO RFID standards. In general, when the AFI is used, theRFID tags are configured to respond only to only a particular type ofRFID interrogation signal (that is, an RFID interrogation signal thatincludes an AFI byte with a particular value). This is done to readmultiple RFID tags 102 in a way that can be faster than simply using thestandard RFID anti-collision protocol.

For example, three different AFI values can be used. A first AFI valuecan be assigned to RFID tags 102 that are attached to connectors 108that are inserted into the rear side of the patch panel system 104, asecond AFI value can be assigned to RFID tags 102 that are attached toconnectors 108 that are inserted into the front side of the patch panelsystem 104, and a third AFI value can be assigned to RFID tags 102 thatare attached to protective caps that are inserted into the front side ofthe patch panel system 104. If an RFID tag 102 attached to theprotective cap is read (which is determined by the AFI value), thatindicates that the front side of the associated adapter 100 is unused.That is, if the front side of an adapter 100 has a protective cap in it(which is determined by reading the RFID tag 102 attached to theprotective cap), the front side of that adapter 100 is considered to beunused.

In the exemplary embodiment described above in connection with FIGS.1A-1F, SC adapters and connectors are used. However, it is to beunderstood that other types of connector and adapter types can be used(LC, FC, LX.5, MTP, or MPO adapters and connectors).

In this exemplary embodiment, the optical adapter 100 is configured tobe removable and re-insertable into the patch panel system 104. Also, inthis exemplary embodiment, the optical adapter 100 and the pair ofantenna coils 126 are configured to read an RFID tag 102 attached to aconnector 108 inserted into a first (for example, front) side of theoptical adapter 100 and to read an RFID tag 102 attached to a connector108 inserted into a second (for example, rear) side of the opticaladapter 100.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example optical adapter 200 including an adapterbody 201 having parallel sides 204, 205 and parallel ends 206, 207 thatextend between a front 202 and a rear 203 (see FIGS. 2B and 2E). Incertain implementations, the sides 203, 204 form major surfaces of theadapter body 201 and the ends 206, 207 form minor surfaces of theadapter body 201. The adapter body 201 defines a first opening 208 atthe front 202 and a second opening 209 at the rear 203. Each opening208, 209 is configured to receive an optical plug connector. Theopenings 208 and 209 are also referred to here as “plug openings” 208and 209.

A plug retention arrangement 250 is mounted within the adapter body 201to hold the plug connectors in the plug openings 208, 209. For example,the plug retention arrangement 250 can include resilient fingers thatlatch onto outer bodies of the plug connectors. In certainimplementations, the plug retention arrangement 250 is configured toreceive and align ferrules of the plug connectors. In an example, theplug retention arrangement 250 includes a flange 251 configured to beheld within a slot 252 defined in the adapter body 201 to secure theplug retention arrangement 250 to the adapter 200 (see FIG. 2E).

An example circuit arrangement 220 is disposed on a first side 204 ofthe adapter body 201. For example, the first side 204 of the adapterbody 201 can define a recess 216 sized to hold a circuit board 222. Theadapter body 201 includes one or more pegs 217 that extend outwardlyfrom the recess 216. The circuit board 222 defines one or more openings225 sized to receive the pegs 217. Accordingly, the pegs 217 aid inaligning the circuit board 222 on the adapter body 201 and in holdingthe circuit board 222 to the adapter body 201.

The circuit board 222 includes two contact pads 224 at one end of thecircuit board 222. At least one RFID antenna coil 226 also is mounted tothe circuit board 222. For example, the RFID antenna coil 226 can bemounted at a central region of the circuit board 222. In certainimplementations, a visual indicator 228 (for example, a light sourcesuch as a light emitting diode) is mounted to the circuit board 222. Forexample, the visual indicator 228 can be mounted to an opposite end ofthe circuit board 222 from the contact pads 224. In the particularexample shown in FIGS. 2A-2I, the visual indicator 228 is implementedusing an LED 228, and the visual indicator 228 is also referred to hereas the “LED 228”. In one example, the RFID antenna coil 226 ispositioned between the contact pads 224 and the LED 228. The adapterbody 201 defines an opening 255 (FIG. 2E) accessible from an interior ofthe first plug opening 208. The LED 228 is disposed at the opening 255so that light emitted from the LED 228 enters the first plug opening208. Accordingly, the LED 228 can illuminate any light transmissiblematerial disposed at the plug opening 208 (for example, on a plugconnector received at the plug opening 208).

In some implementations, a cover 218 is disposed over the circuit board222 (for example, see FIG. 2B). For example, the cover 218 can beovermolded to the adapter body 201 over the circuit board 222. In otherimplementations, the cover 218 can be latched, welded, or otherwisesecured to the adapter body 201. The cover 218 inhibits damage to thecircuit board 222 and components mounted thereto. In certainimplementations, the cover 218 includes cutouts or recesses that alignwith the contact pads 224 that enable the contact pads 224 to remainuncovered. In other implementations, the cover 218 ends before reachingthe pads 224.

The adapter body 201 includes bulkhead flanges 210 that extend outwardlyfrom the ends 206, 207 of the adapter body 201. For example, thebulkhead flanges 210 can extend outwardly from intermediate sections ofthe ends 206, 207. The bulkhead flanges 210 facilitate holding theadapter body 201 to a panel 300 or other surface (see FIG. 2H). Forexample, one or more clips 230 can be disposed on the adapter body 201.Each clip 230 includes a clip body 231 configured to mount to theadapter body 201. In some implementations, a majority of the clip body231 extends over one of the ends 206, 207 of the adapter body 201.

The clip body 231 has at least a first contact section 232 thatresiliently extends outwardly from the adapter body 201 when the clipbody 231 is mounted to the adapter 200. When the rear 203 of the adapter200 is inserted through an opening 305 (FIG. 2I) in a panel 300 (forexample, see FIG. 2H), at least the first contact section 232 of theclip 230 passes through the opening 305 and engages a rear 301 of thepanel 300. Accordingly, the panel 300 is held between the first contactsection 232 of the clip 230 and the bulkhead flange 210 of the adapter200.

In some implementations, the clip 230 also electrically connects theadapter 200 to circuitry mounted to the panel 300 (for example, see FIG.2H). In such implementations, the clip 230 includes a second contactsection 234. The second contact section 234 is configured to extend overone of the contact pads 224 of the circuit board 222. The second contactsection 234 is electrically connected to the first contact section 232.For example, the clip body 231 can be formed of an electricallyconductive material (for example, metal). The first contact section 232can engage a contact pad 302 provided at a rear 301 of the panel 300when the adapter 200 is mounted to the panel 300 (see FIG. 2H).Accordingly, the circuit board components of the adapter 200 can beelectrically coupled to the panel circuitry.

In some implementations, the clip body 231 also includes a third contactsection 236. The third contact section 236 extends towards the firstcontact section 232. When the adapter 200 is mounted at the panel 300,the third contact section 236 of the clip 230 is configured to engage afront 303 of the panel 300. For example, the third contact section 236can engage a contact pad 304 provided at the front 303 of the panel 300(see FIG. 2H). In certain implementations, the contact pad 304 at thefront 303 of the panel 300 is electrically connected (for example, usinga via 306) to the contact pad 302 at the rear 301 of the panel 300 (seeFIG. 2H).

The combination of the second and third contacts 234, 236 increase thechance of some part of the clip body 231 touching one of the panelcontact pads 302, 304 when a plug connector is being received at one ofthe plug openings 208, 209. For example, inserting a plug connector atthe front plug opening 208 or removing a plug connector from the rearplug opening 209 can push the first contact section 232 of the clip 230away from the rear contact pad 302 on the panel 300. In such situations,the third contact section 236 will be moved against the front contactpad 304 on the panel 300 and maintain the connection between the circuitboard 222 and the panel circuitry. Likewise, inserting a plug connectorat the rear plug opening 209 or removing a plug connector from the frontplug opening 208 can push the third contact section 236 of the clip 230away from the front contact pad 304 on the panel 300. In suchsituations, the first contact section 232 will be moved against the rearcontact pad 302 on the panel 300 and maintain the connection between thecircuit board 222 and the panel circuitry.

FIGS. 2C and 2D illustrate one example implementation of a clip 230suitable for use in fastening the adapter body 201 to a panel or othersurface. The clip body 231 of the example clip 230 includes a generallyflat section. The first contact surface 232 is cut out from the flatsection and bent outwardly. A distal end of the first contact section232 is curved inwardly to provide a contoured engagement surface for therear contact pad 302 of the panel 300. In other implementations, thedistal end of the first contact section 232 can be bent or straight.

The second contact section 234 is disposed on a first cantilevered arm233 extending outwardly from the flat section of the clip body 231. Thecantilevered arm 233 is bent or curved so that the second contactsection 234 extends generally orthogonal to the flat section of the clipbody 231. Accordingly, the second contact section 234 is configured tolie over one of the major surfaces (for example, the first side 204) ofthe adapter body 201. A distal tip of the second contact section 234 canbe contoured to facilitate contact with the contact pad 224 of thecircuit board 222.

The third contact section 236 is disposed on a second cantilevered arm235 extending outwardly from the flat section of the clip body 231. Thesecond cantilevered arm 235 is bent or curved so that a portion of thethird contact section 234 extends generally orthogonal to the flatsection of the clip body 231 and to the second contact section 234. Thethird contact section 236 defines a resilient section so that the distaltip is moveable towards the second cantilevered arm 235 and away fromthe first contact section 232. In the example shown, the distal tip ofthe third contact section 236 defines a curve or bump protruding towardsthe first contact section 232.

The clip body 231 defines a retention flange 238 that facilitatesmounting the clip body 231 to the adapter body 201. The retention flange238 is disposed at an opposite side of the clip body 231 from the thirdcontact section 236. The retention flange 238 contours away from theflat section of the clip body 231. The flat section of the clip body 231defines a notched section 239 that extends along the second contactsection 234.

Referring back to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the adapter body 201 is configured toreceive one or more of the clips 230. For example, the ends 206, 207 ofthe adapter body 201 define recesses 212 in which the flat section ofthe clip body 231 seats. The end recesses 212 form ridges extending atleast partially around the end recesses 212. For example, a ridge 215can be formed along the second side 205 of the adapter body 201 and atan opposite end of the recess 212 from the bulkhead flange 210. The clipbody 231 is disposed in one of the recesses 212 so that one side of theclip body 231 and the retention flange 238 abuts the ridge 215. Theadapter body 201 includes a retention latch 214 that extends over andengages the notched section 239 of the clip body 231 opposite the ridge215.

The adapter body 201 defines cutouts 213 in the first side 204 thatconnect the recesses 212 to the side recess 216. The first cantileveredarm 233 of each clip 230 extends through one of the cutouts 213 so thatthe second contact section 234 of the clip 230 can engage the contactpads 224 on the circuit board 222. In some implementations, the bulkheadflanges 210 define recessed sections 211 in which the third contactsections 236 of the clips 230 can seat. In other implementations, thethird contact section 236 of each clip 230 can seat against an externalsurface of the respective bulkhead flange 210.

Referring to FIGS. 2E-2G, plug connectors can be keyed to mate with theadapter 200 at particular rotational orientation. For example, theadapter body 201 can define keyways 219 at the plug openings 208, 209that are configured to mate with corresponding keys on the plugconnectors when the plug connectors are received at the plug openings208, 209. In the example shown, the keyways 219 are provided at anopposite side of the adapter body 201 from the circuit board 222. In theexample shown, the second side 205 of the adapter body 201 defines thekeyways 219. In certain implementations, the keyways 219 are provided atan opposite side of the adapter body 201 from the LED 228.

In accordance with some aspects of the disclosure, the adapter 200 alsocan include a keying arrangement 240 to mount the adapter 200 to thepanel 300 in a particular rotational orientation. For example, in someimplementations, the panel 300 can be configured to receive multipleadapters 200 with each adapter 200 keyed in particular rotationalorientation. In certain implementations, the keyed orientation of someadapters 200 may differ from the keyed orientation of other adapters 200relative to the panel 300. In other implementations, the adapters 200can be keyed to the panel 300 so that the keyways 219 of the adapterbodies 201 all face in a common direction relative to the panel 300.

In the example shown in FIGS. 2E-2G, the keying arrangement 240 includesa rail 241 that is configured to slide within a notch 308 defined in thepanel 300 (FIG. 2I). In some implementations, the panel 300 defines oneor more openings 305 sized to receive multiple adapters 200. In suchimplementations, each opening 305 includes multiple notches 308. Inother implementations, the panel 300 defines one or more openings 305sized to receive a single adapter 200 each. In such implementations,each opening 305 defines one notch 308. In still other implementations,the panel 300 can define a bump protruding into the opening 305 and theadapter body 201 can define a channel along which the bump can slidewhen mounting the adapter 200 to the panel 300.

In some implementations, the rail 241 defines a ramped or taperedsurface 243 that leads the key rail 241 into the panel notch 308 whenthe adapter 200 is mounted to the panel 300 (see FIG. 2G). The taperedsurface 243 facilitates inserting the key rail 241 into the panel notch308. In some implementations, the key rail 241 is formed to be planarwith one of the sides 204, 205 of the adapter body 201. In certainimplementations, the rail 241 extends planar with the second side 205 ofthe adapter body 201. In the example shown, the rail 241 extends outpast the second end 207 of the adapter body 201. In certainimplementations, the rail 241 has a contoured shaped. In certainimplementations, the rail 241 defines a notch 242 that breaks the rail241 into longitudinally spaced sections. In other implementations, therail 241 can be provided at a different location on the adapter body201.

These techniques can be applied to other types of devices (for example,other types of adapters and connectors, as wells as other similardevices, etc.).

A number of embodiments have been described. Nevertheless, it will beunderstood that various modifications to the described embodiments maybe made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimedinvention. Also, combinations of the individual features of theabove-described embodiments are considered within the scope of theinventions disclosed here.

EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Example 1 includes an optical adapter comprising: a body in which atleast one connector can be inserted; at least one radio frequencyidentification (RFID) antenna; a visual indicator; at least one adaptercontact that is electrically connected to the RFID antenna and thevisual indicator; and a clip configured to electrically connect theadapter contact to a panel contact on a panel when the optical adapteris inserted into the panel and to mechanically hold the optical adapterin the panel; wherein the RFID antenna is configured to be positionednear an RFID tag attached to the connector when the connector isinserted into the body of the optical adapter.

Example 2 includes the optical adapter of Example 1, wherein the RFIDantenna comprises a pair of antenna coils implemented as a common loop.Example 3 includes the optical adapter of Example 2, wherein the pair ofantenna coils is configured to read a first RFID tag attached to a firstconnector inserted into a first side of the optical adapter and to reada second RFID tag attached to a second connector inserted into a secondside of the optical adapter. Example 4 includes the optical adapter ofany of the Examples 1-3, wherein the visual indicator comprises a pairof light emitting diodes. Example 5 includes the optical adapter of anyof the Examples 1-4, wherein the clip comprises a pair of clips. Example6 includes the optical adapter of any of the Examples 1-5, furthercomprising a printed circuit board on which the RFID antenna, the visualindicator, and the adapter contact are mounted. Example 7 includes theoptical adapter of any of the Examples 1-6, further comprising a lightguide material, wherein the optical adapter is configured to opticallycouple the light guide material to the visual indicator so as to providea visual indication at a point that is remote from the visual indicator.

Example 8 includes the optical adapter of any of the Examples 1-7,wherein the optical adapter is configured to be removable andre-insertable into the panel. Example 9 includes the optical adapter ofany of the Examples 1-8, further comprising a keying arrangementconfigured to mount the optical adapter to the panel in a particularrotational orientation. Example 10 includes the optical adapter ofExample 9, wherein the keying arrangement comprises a rail that isconfigured to slide within a notch included in the panel. Example 11includes the optical adapter of any of the Examples 1-10, whereinoptical adapter is keyed to mate with the connector at a particularrotational orientation. Example 12 includes the optical adapter ofExample 11, wherein the body of the optical adapter defines a keyway inorder to key the optical adapter to mate with the connector at theparticular rotational orientation.

Example 13 includes the optical adapter of any of the Examples 1-12,wherein the clip comprises a plurality of contact sections, wherein eachof the plurality of contact sections is configured to touch acorresponding contact on the panel in connection with at least one of:the connector being inserted into the optical adapter, the connectorbeing removed from the optical adapter, and the optical adapter beinginserted into the panel.

Example 14 includes a system comprising: a panel comprising a pluralityof openings, each of the opening comprising a respective panel contact,wherein the system is configured to selectively couple each panelcontact to an RFID reader; a plurality of optical adapters configured tobe inserted into the openings of the panel, wherein each optical adaptercomprises: a body in which at least one connector can be inserted; atleast one radio frequency identification (RFID) antenna; a visualindicator; at least one adapter contact that is electrically connectedto the RFID antenna and the visual indicator; and a clip configured toelectrically connect the adapter contact to respective one of respectivepanel contacts when the optical adapter is inserted into one of theopenings of the panel and to mechanically hold the optical adapter inthe panel; wherein the RFID antenna of each connector is configured tobe positioned near an RFID tag attached to the connector when theconnector is inserted into the body of the optical adapter; and whereinthe system is configured to selective couple the RFID reader to each ofthe panel contacts.

Example 15 includes the system of Example 14, wherein the system isconfigured to selectively couple each panel contact to a controller.Example 16 includes the system of any of the Examples 14-15, wherein theRFID antenna for each optical adapter comprises a pair of antenna coilsimplemented as a common loop. Example 17 includes the system of Example16, wherein the pair of antenna coils for each optical adapter isconfigured to read a first RFID tag attached to a first connectorinserted into a first side of the optical adapter and to read a secondRFID tag attached to a second connector inserted into a second side ofthe optical adapter. Example 18 includes the system of any of theExamples 14-17, wherein the visual indicator for each optical adaptercomprises a pair of light emitting diodes.

Example 19 includes the system of any of the Examples 14-18, wherein theclip for each optical adapter comprises a pair of clips. Example 20includes the system of any of the Examples 14-19, wherein each opticaladapter further comprises a printed circuit board on which the RFIDantenna, the visual indicator, and the adapter contact for that opticaladapter are mounted. Example 21 includes the system of any of theExamples 14-20, wherein each optical adapter further comprises a lightguide material, wherein each optical adapter is configured to opticallycouple the light guide material to the visual indicator for that opticaladapter so as to provide a visual indication at a point that is remotefrom the visual indicator.

Example 22 includes the system of any of the Examples 14-21, whereineach optical adapter is configured to be removable and re-insertableinto the panel.

Example 23 includes the system of any of the Examples 14-22, whereineach optical adapter further comprises a keying arrangement configuredto mount the optical adapter to the panel in a particular rotationalorientation. Example 24 includes the system of Example 23, wherein thekeying arrangement of each optical adapter comprises a rail that isconfigured to slide within a respective notch included in the panel.Example 25 includes the system of any of the Examples 14-24, whereineach optical adapter is keyed to mate with a corresponding connector ata particular rotational orientation. Example 26 includes the system ofExample 25, wherein the body of each optical adapter defines a keyway inorder to key the optical adapter to mate with the correspondingconnector at the particular rotational orientation.

Example 27 includes the system of any of the Examples 14-26, wherein theclip of each optical adapter comprises a plurality of contact sections,wherein each of the plurality contact sections is configured to touch acorresponding contact on the panel in connection with at least one of:the corresponding connector being inserted into the optical adapter, thecorresponding connector being removed from the optical adapter, and theoptical adapter being inserted into the panel.

Example 28 includes a method comprising: inserting an optical adapterinto an opening of a panel, wherein the optical adapter comprises: abody in which at least one connector can be inserted; at least one radiofrequency identification (RFID) antenna; a visual indicator; at leastone adapter contact that is electrically connected to the RFID antennaand the visual indicator; and a clip configured to electrically connectthe adapter contact to a panel contact on a panel when the opticaladapter is inserted into the panel and to mechanically hold the opticaladapter in the panel; and wherein the RFID antenna is configured to bepositioned near an RFID tag attached to the connector when the connectoris inserted into the body of the optical adapter; selectively couplingan RFID reader to the RFID antenna; and reading a first RFID tagassociated with a first connecter inserted into a first side of theoptical adapter and reading a second RFID tag associated with a secondconnector inserted into a second side of the optical adapter.

Example 29 includes the method of Example 28, further comprising:selectively coupling a controller to the visual indicator via the panelcontact, the clip, and the adapter contact; and providing a visualindication at the optical adapter using the visual indicator under thecontrol of the controller. Example 30 includes the method of any of theExamples 28-29, wherein the optical adapter further comprises a lightguide material, wherein the optical adapter is configured to opticallycouple the light guide material to the visual indicator; and whereinproviding a visual indication at the optical adapter comprises providinga visual indication at a point that is remote from the visual indicator.Example 31 includes the method of any of the Examples 28-30, furthercomprising keying the optical adapter so that the optical adapter willbe mounted to the panel in a particular rotational orientation; whereininserting the optical adapter into the opening of the panel comprisesinserting the optical adapter into the opening of the panel so that theoptical adapter is mounted to the panel in the particular rotationalorientation.

Example 32 includes the method of any of the Examples 28-31, furthercomprising keying the optical adapter so that the optical adapter willmate with the connector at a particular rotational orientation. Example33 includes the method of any of the Examples 28-32, wherein the clipcomprises a plurality of contact sections, wherein each of the pluralityof contact sections is configured to touch a corresponding contact onthe panel in connection with at least one of: the correspondingconnector being inserted into the optical adapter, the correspondingconnector being removed from the optical adapter, and the opticaladapter being inserted into the panel.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system comprising: a panel comprising aplurality of openings, each of the opening comprising a respective panelcontact, wherein the system is configured to selectively couple eachpanel contact to an RFID reader; a plurality of optical adaptersconfigured to be inserted into the openings of the panel, wherein eachoptical adapter comprises: a body in which at least one connector can beinserted; at least one radio frequency identifier (RFID) antenna; atleast one adapter contact that is electrically connected to the RFIDantenna; and at least one conductor configured to electrically connectthe adapter contact to respective one of respective panel contacts whenthe optical adapter is inserted into one of the openings of the panel;wherein the RFID antenna of each connector is configured to bepositioned near an RFID tag attached to the connector when the connectoris inserted into the body of the optical adapter; and wherein the systemis configured to selectively couple the RFID reader to each of the panelcontacts.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is configured toselectively couple each panel contact to a controller.
 3. The system ofclaim 1, wherein each optical adapter further comprises a visualindicator that is electrically connected to at least one adaptercontact, wherein the visual indicator is electrically connected to atleast one of: at least one adapter contact that is also electricallyconnected to the RFID antenna of that optical adapter; and at least oneadapter contact that is not also electrically connected to the RFIDantenna of that optical adapter.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein thevisual indicator for each optical adapter comprises at least one lightemitting diode.
 5. The system of claim 3, wherein each optical adapterfurther comprises a printed circuit board on which the RFID antenna, thevisual indicator, and the adapter contact for that optical adapter aremounted.
 6. The system of claim 3, wherein each optical adapter furthercomprises a light guide material, wherein each optical adapter isconfigured to optically couple the light guide material to the visualindicator for that optical adapter so as to provide a visual indicationat a point that is remote from the visual indicator.
 7. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the RFID antenna for each optical adapter comprises apair of antenna coils implemented as a common loop; and wherein the pairof antenna coils for each optical adapter is configured to read a firstRFID tag attached to a first connector inserted into a first side of theoptical adapter and to read a second RFID tag attached to a secondconnector inserted into a second side of the optical adapter.
 8. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the at least one conductor for each opticaladapter is further configured to mechanically hold the optical adapterin the panel when the optical adapter is inserted into the panel.
 9. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the at least one conductor for each opticaladapter comprises a clip.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the clipfor each optical adapter comprises a pair of clips.
 11. The system ofclaim 1, wherein each optical adapter is configured to be removable andre-insertable into the panel.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the atleast one conductor for each optical adapter comprises a plurality ofcontact sections, wherein each of the plurality of contact sections forthat optical adapter is configured to touch a corresponding contact onthe panel in connection with at least one of: the connector beinginserted into that optical adapter, the connector being removed fromthat optical adapter, and that optical adapter being inserted into thepanel.
 13. The system of claim 1, wherein each optical adapter furthercomprises a keying arrangement configured to mount the optical adapterto the panel in a particular rotational orientation.
 14. The system ofclaim 13, wherein the keying arrangement of each optical adaptercomprises a rail that is configured to slide within a respective notchincluded in the panel.
 15. The system of claim 1, wherein each opticaladapter is keyed to mate with a corresponding connector at a particularrotational orientation.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the body ofeach optical adapter defines a keyway in order to key the opticaladapter to mate with the corresponding connector at the particularrotational orientation.
 17. A method comprising: inserting an opticaladapter into an opening of a panel, wherein the optical adaptercomprises: a body in which at least one connector can be inserted; atleast one radio frequency identifier (RFID) antenna; at least oneadapter contact that is electrically connected to the RFID antenna; andat least one conductor configured to electrically connect the adaptercontact to a panel contact on a panel when the optical adapter isinserted into the panel; and wherein the RFID antenna is configured tobe positioned near an RFID tag attached to the connector when theconnector is inserted into the body of the optical adapter; selectivelycoupling an RFID reader to the RFID antenna; and reading the RFID tagassociated with the connecter inserted into the body of the opticaladapter.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the optical adapter furthercomprises a visual indicator that is electrically connected to at leastone adapter contact of the optical adapter, wherein the visual indicatoris electrically connected to at least one of: at least one adaptercontact that is also electrically connected to the RFID antenna; whereinthe method further comprises: selectively coupling a controller to thevisual indicator via the adapter contact that is electrically connectedto the visual indicator; and providing a visual indication at theoptical adapter using the visual indicator under the control of thecontroller.
 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the optical adapterfurther comprises a light guide material, wherein the optical adapter isconfigured to optically couple the light guide material to the visualindicator; and wherein providing a visual indication at the opticaladapter comprises providing a visual indication at a point that isremote from the visual indicator.
 20. The method of claim 17, whereinthe at least one conductor is further configured to mechanically holdthe optical adapter in the panel when the optical adapter is insertedinto the panel.
 21. The method of claim 17, wherein the RFID antennacomprises a pair of antenna coils implemented as a common loop; andwherein reading the RFID tag associated with the connecter inserted intothe body of the optical adapter comprising: reading a first RFID tagattached to a first connector inserted into a first side of the opticaladapter; and reading a second RFID tag attached to a second connectorinserted into a second side of the optical adapter.
 22. The method ofclaim 17, further comprising keying the optical adapter so that theoptical adapter will be mounted to the panel in a particular rotationalorientation; wherein inserting the optical adapter into the opening ofthe panel comprises inserting the optical adapter into the opening ofthe panel so that the optical adapter is mounted to the panel in theparticular rotational orientation.
 23. The method of claim 17, furthercomprising keying the optical adapter so that the optical adapter willmate with the connector at a particular rotational orientation.
 24. Themethod of claim 17, wherein the at least one conductor comprises aplurality of contact sections, wherein each of the plurality of contactsections is configured to touch a corresponding contact on the panel inconnection with at least one of: the corresponding connector beinginserted into the optical adapter, the corresponding connector beingremoved from the optical adapter, and the optical adapter being insertedinto the panel.
 25. A first connector comprising: a body configured tomate with a second connector attached to the end of a cable; at leastone radio frequency identifier (RFID) antenna; at least one connectorcontact that is electrically connected to the RFID antenna; and at leastone conductor configured to electrically connect the connector contactto a panel contact on a panel when the first connector is inserted intothe panel; wherein the RFID antenna is configured to be positioned nearan RFID tag attached to the second connector when the second connectormates with the body of the first connector.
 26. The first connector ofclaim 25, further comprising a visual indicator that is electricallyconnected to at least one connector contact, wherein the visualindicator is electrically connected to at least one of: at least oneconnector contact that is also electrically connected to the RFIDantenna; and at least one connector contact that is not alsoelectrically connected to the RFID antenna.
 27. The first connector ofclaim 26, further comprising a printed circuit board on which the RFIDantenna, the visual indicator, and the adapter contact are mounted. 28.The first connector of claim 26, further comprising a light guidematerial, wherein the first connector is configured to optically couplethe light guide material to the visual indicator so as to provide avisual indication at a point that is remote from the visual indicator.29. The first connector of claim 26, wherein the visual indicator foreach optical adapter comprises at least one light emitting diode. 30.The first connector of claim 25, wherein the at least one conductor isfurther configured to mechanically hold the optical adapter in the panelwhen the first connector is inserted into the panel.
 31. The firstconnector of claim 25, wherein the first connector comprises an opticaladapter; wherein the RFID antenna comprises a pair of antenna coilsimplemented as a common loop; and wherein the pair of antenna coils isconfigured to read a first RFID tag attached to a first cable connectorinserted into a first side of the optical adapter and to read a secondRFID tag attached to a second cable connector inserted into a secondside of the optical adapter.
 32. The first connector of claim 25,wherein the at least one conductor comprises a clip.
 33. The firstconnector of claim 32, wherein the clip comprises a pair of clips. 34.The first connector of claim 25, wherein the first connector isconfigured to be removable and re-insertable into the panel.
 35. Thefirst connector of claim 25, wherein the at least one conductorcomprises a plurality of contact sections, wherein each of the pluralityof contact sections is configured to touch a corresponding contact onthe panel in connection with at least one of: the second connector beingmated with the body of the first connector, the second connector beingunmated with the first connector, and the first connector being insertedinto the panel.
 36. The first connector of claim 25, further comprisinga keying arrangement configured to mount the first connector to thepanel in a particular rotational orientation.
 37. The first connector ofclaim 36, wherein the keying arrangement comprises a rail that isconfigured to slide within a notch included in the panel.
 38. The firstconnector of claim 25, wherein the first connector is keyed to mate withthe second connector at a particular rotational orientation.
 39. Thefirst connector of claim 38, wherein the body of the first connectordefines a keyway in order to key the first connector to mate with secondthe connector at the particular rotational orientation.